We will picture his feelings"-- the Earl paused, and fired a shot more or less at a venture--"when he becomes aware that, though by law enabled to buy his son off from military service, he has by chicanery been rendered powerless.

We will imagine him an enforced spectator, wincing as each stroke draws blood." "You will do this thing! You will tell him!" "My dear sirs, I shall hate to do it.

In proof that I speak sincerely, let me say that my offer still remains open.

May I now count on your accepting it ?" "No!" thundered the little man, springing forward in a fury.
Captain Jemmy caught him by the arm, however, and forced him back to the arm-chair.

The Earl shrugged his shoulders.
"Truly you are a Roman parent," said he, bowing ironically; "but you will excuse me if I find it time to seek the lad's natural father.
Remember, if you please, gentlemen, your promise of silence." He opened the door and passed quietly through the hall and out of the house.